Title: Effects of deer exclosures on oak regeneration in closed-canopy stands

Author: Yuska, Angela M.; Steiner, Kim C.; Finley, James C.

Year: 2008

Publication: In: Jacobs, Douglass F.; Michler, Charles H., eds. 2008. Proceedings, 16th Central Hardwood Forest Conference; 2008 April 8-9; West Lafayette, IN. Gen. Tech. Rep. NRS-P-24. Newtown Square, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Research Station: 91-99.

Abstract: Studies of the effects of high deer densities on forest regeneration have shown altered species composition and reduced diversity in stands regenerating after harvest. The effects of browsing in fully stocked, undisturbed stands are less well known but important, as establishment of seedlings of oaks and other species prior to disturbance is very important for self-replacement. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effects of deer exclusion on existing cohorts of advanced oak seedlings in closed-canopy, mixed-oak stands in Pennsylvania. Permanent plots in six stands were established and measured in 2003, and half of each stand was subsequently fenced. The stands were remeasured in 2006 to quantify changes in the size and number of tree seedlings after two growing seasons as a result of protection from deer. Three additional stands were measured and fenced without controls for periods of 6 to 8 years.